DES MOINES, Iowa — Republican Senator Joni Ernst officially announced on Tuesday that she won’t be seeking reelection.

Sen. Ernst made the announcement in a video on her official YouTube channel. It comes after reports last week speculating that she wouldn’t be seeking a second term.

In the video, Ernst cites her growing family as one of the main reasons why she decided to not seek reelection in 2026. Ernst was first elected to the US Senate back in 2014. She says in part:

Having been raised in a family who has given me so much love and support, now as our family ages and grows, it is my time to give back to them. After a tremendous amount of prayer and reflection, I will not be seeking reelection in 2026.

This was no easy decision. I love my state and country. It is the very reason why I decided to wear our nation’s uniform and run for elected office in the first place. I never imagined this farm girl would have the opportunity to serve as a lieutenant colonel and then a United States Senator.

Sen. Chuck Grassley released a statement about Ernst’s announcement shortly after the video was released. It reads:

It has been an honor to serve Iowans alongside my friend and colleague, Joni Ernst, since Iowans elected her in 2014. As the Senate’s first female combat veteran and Iowa’s first woman elected to Congress, she broke barriers at every turn and accomplished what she set out to do: ‘MAKE ‘EM SQUEL.’ After a long career in the Iowa National Guard as well as elected office, Joni has severed our country and state with pride and distinction. Barbara and I wish her well and know that whatever she chooses to do in her next chapter, they will be lucky to have this outstanding leader on the team. I will miss serving with Joni but know she will enjoy having more time to cherish her favorite role, as a mother and grandmother.

Joni is a valued partner in the Senate, and I look forward to working together on issues important to Iowans throughout the remainder of her term.

Several candidates have announced their run for Ernst’s seat, with the latest being Bob Krause who announced his campaign on Monday night.

This is a developing story, check back to www.who13.com for updates.